The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
